Henas (2022) Movie Script
In the Name of God
This is a true story.
[motorbike engine, gun shots]
[motorbike fading]
Henas.
[light tapping]
[clinking]
[clinking]
-Ms Pirani?
-Yes, Ms Karimi?
- They're on their way.
- Please let me know if you find anything.
[door opening]
[door shutting]
Darioosh! [Knocking]
Darioosh!
Yes, Shohreh? [Water splashing]
Her husband has the key to
the utility room. He's on his way.
What's the matter anyway?
I wanted to turn off the
water tap, but it got broken.
Really?
Can't you do something?
We'll be too late, Darioosh!
The building will be flooded with
water if I don't take care of this.
Hand me the Monkey wrench
from the took kit. [Water splashing]
The Monkey wrench?
-Here you are.
-Give it.
-Yes?
-Ma'am?
Yes? Yes?
This is not the Monkey wrench.
-Shohreh!
-Here's the Monkey wrench.
Can I play with the water
too? [Water splashing]
Get out, honey. You'll get wet!
Wow! This is so much fun!
Armita!
Oh my god! You're soaked!
[door closing]
[gurgling sound]
[door opening]
I stopped it.
Oh God!
You shouldn't get a cold
just before our departure.
Take off your shirt, I'll get you a towel.
I'll change your shirt. [Mobile ringing]
All right.
[mobile ringing]
Get me my phone, please.
-Don't touch anything, Armita!
-Do you need anything, dad?
No, honey. Thanks. Give
it to me. [Mobile ringing]
It's from work.
Just ignore it! They're going to
give you some last minute task!
We're running late!
[mobile and phone ringing]
-Don't answer it!
-It's my mum.
Oh, answer it then.
-Hey, mum!
-Take off your shirt.
How are you?
How is dad?
[speaking in German]
I don't understand what you're saying, mum!
Come on, Armita! We worked
so much on learning German!
[speaking in Kurdish]
Darioosh! Darioosh!
[thuds]
Hello! Hi, dear!
Hi!
How are you?
-What are you doing, sweetie?
-Hi, grandma!
You're sitting on the couch
with your wet trousers?
Sorry. It'll be dry when we
come back a year from now.
After experiencing a month of life
there, we'll never think of coming back.
You did not drink the syrup!
It's a 6 or 7-hour flight, Darioosh!
I want to carry my baggage of
sorrow and sadness on my shoulders...
And limp with a cane towards
the desert of non-existence.
Even Dr Chamran lived in
the US for 20 years. Drink this!
Thank you. He lived there for 14 years.
There's no difference.
Dry your hair well! You
don't want to catch a cold!
Yes, ma'am!
[popping sound]
Oh, my!
What happened? The Phone just turned off!
It's a power-cut, sweetie.
Daddy used the plug I've been
telling him to fix for six months!
-I'll fix it now.
-What will you fix?
- We're going to miss the flight, hon.
- We can't leave without fixing the power.
- You did not drink your syrup!
- Have you ever got on a plane, dad?
Yes, sweetie! Let's fly now!
[mimicking airplane]
Go higher and higher!
[cheerful giggle]
Yay!
Look at my princess!
We want to race to the car,
daddy! [Persian song playing]
Great!
Ready? 1... 2... 3!
1... 2... 3... 4... 5...
6. [Car door unlocking]
O, cute sparrow! [Persian song playing]
You jump so high!
Your wings are the same colour as soil!
You have a kind and pure heart.
[airplane engine]
Hurry up, guys! We'll have to walk
to the plane if we don't catch the bus!
Let her walk! I'll hold her hand.
Hurry up, man! I'll pay you a good tip too!
[roar of chatter]
The goods in Hanover are terrible!
Get me some terrible souvenir from Hanover!
Thank you.
Here you are!
-Let's go!
-Yeah.
Where are you going? [Mobile ringing]
Let me answer my phone for a second.
Hold on! Hold on! Let me...
[mobile ringing]
-Hello?
-Oh god!
-I was about to fall!
-Hello...
Yes.
-Yassi?
-Yes?
Don't forget to take my
flowers to your place.
No worries. I'll take them.
[airport announcement]
[suspense music]
[rolling sound]
[sharp thud, scream]
Damn!
What are you doing sir?
Weren't you supposed not to take these?
-Daddy said so!
-Did he?
You promised to leave them at
home if you wore the dress you wanted!
We should gather them all now!
- Are you going to take all these with you?
- No way! She's driving me crazy!
-Soheil!
-Yes?
Do you know who called Darioosh?
Angela! His German wife! [Clinking]
Where is Darioosh anyway? [Clinking]
[suspense music]
[singing song]
[suspense music]
-Is something the matter?
-Don't know!
-When are we getting on the plane?
-Right away, sweetie.
[airplane engine]
[sheets swishing]
[yawning]
[switch off]
[PC shutting]
[door creaking]
[deep breathing]
Darioosh?
Go to bed.
My sweetie...
-Get up, Darioosh!
-Can you give me a piece of paper?
Did you solve a problem
in your sleep again?
[clanking sound]
Here...
Darioosh!
Listen...
Do you want me to talk to Dr Saghian?
No.
I'll talk to him myself.
But you get shy when dealing with him.
You don't express yourself.
I want to see why we should
be held at the airport gate.
Right now...
An email just came for you
from the German university.
Did you reply?
No...
They had asked us to go to the
offices to determine our dorm room.
They probably have not informed
that section of our cancellation.
It's Germany we're talking about.
Darioosh, Don't write on your
palm. I'll get you a paper. Hold on.
I'll get it at once.
[switch on]
[clicking sound]
[suspense music]
[weaving the car]
Hey, ma'am.
[car horn]
What the hell? [Weaving the car]
[clanking, car door opening]
[car door closing]
[footsteps]
[knocking on the window]
Didn't you notice that I was
parking my car here? Hey!
I'm...
Hush!
Relax!
This is a research lab!
I can move my car if you want.
No, I'll just park my car somewhere else.
I hear you got deported!
News travel fast!
Why do you think it even matters to me?
You wouldn't know about it if
it didn't. [Car door unlocking]
They keep asking me
to come here these days.
You hear all sorts of unwanted
stuff. [Car door closing]
But I'm glad I saw you.
Let's meet somewhere.
What for?
For work. How about meeting in a cafe?
Fine. Later.
[weaving the car]
[office sounds]
[knocking]
Hello! Hi!
-Hi there.
-Hi, Why are you so late?
I got stuck in the parking lot for a while.
-Where is Armita?
-She's with Dr Saghian!
I brought you food.
Don't spoil him so much! Let his
beat-up stomach get used to our food here!
You keep spoiling your wife!
She's craving Falafel now!
Falafel beats Beef Stroganoff any day.
- Check on her more often!
- We were supposed to be in Germany now!
So you shouldn't be
counting on me. But all right!
Bye, Darioosh!
Bye.
-Come in, please, Ms Pirani.
-Yes, thank you.
- There's enough food for all of you gentlemen.
- Thank you.
-Saeid?
-Sir?
Will you please get Dr
Ghazanfari's research results?
Yes, sir.
-Reza?
-Sir?
Can you go help him as well?
Yes, I'll go help get the results.
Should I put these here, Mr Rezaeinejad?
Yes, sure.
Did you like how I called his surname?
[talking Kurdish]
-Sweetheart?
-Yeah, baby?
Do not pick on Dr Saghian.
It was not his fault that
our trip was cancelled.
I've already talked to him.
The German university has
cancelled the arrangement,
and the lads are already
negotiating with them.
[clanking sound]
We'd have nowhere to go there.
They've barred you
from leaving the country.
[clanking sound]
Why would they do that?
It's probably political, Darioosh
It must be related to
the post election protests.
I swear to god. You'll
see. [Clanking sound]
Who could have seen us in
the middle of that huge crowd?
The ones in charge can see everyone!
-Hi.
-Hello there! We're here!
Hi. Your hands will get greasy!
Here. Take this instead.
-Thank you.
-You're welcome.
You'll make our professor
go bankrupt one day!
-Is that so?
-No worries. I'll make you work for it.
It's my honour. [Laughing]
Just please tell him why
our trip was cancelled.
We just talked about this, Shohreh.
No. We've been preparing
for this trip since a year ago.
What's going to happen
to Darioosh's thesis now?
It's only been 24 hours
since the cancellation.
And it's the weekend over there.
Be patient! It will be all right.
Fine.
Will you stay for lunch, Shohreh?
-No, I'm leaving.
-So is Armita then.
-Yes!
-No, I want to stay!
No, honey.
I've made you macaroni
with salad and a special sauce.
-We'll take these as well. Say bye now.
-Bye!
Bye. Then we won't unpack our bags, doctor.
Have a little patience, my daughter.
Goodbye. [Laughing]
[office noises]
Darioosh!
Yes, sir?
Dr Shahriari is coming here today.
-Really?
-Yes, yes.
We're going to negotiate a new project.
Do not bore him with your questions.
Or I'll expel you from the meeting.
No worries, sir.
There are scratches all over the blender.
Who's poured buttons and
this rubbish stuff in a blender?
[door unlocking]
Is it you, Darioosh?
[key jingling]
[door closing]
Welcome home!
-Hi.
-Daddy! Daddy!
-Yeah?
-Mummy wants to throw away all my stuff. She said...
Go to your room! I'm not in the mood now.
Armita? Dad is tired now.
Let's get you to your room, sweetie.
We will tidy up your room later.
Daddy needs to rest a little bit.
[door closing]
[water splashing]
Are you having a shower, Darioosh?
[doorbell ringing]
[door opening]
Hi! Come in!
Hi, Shohreh!
No, thanks.
Here. Darioosh had left his bag in our car.
What is Darioosh's bag doing in your hand?
We gave him a lift.
Soheil had come to pick me
up and we offered him a lift too.
Had he come with you?
-Come on in.
-No, Soheil is waiting in the car.
-Kiss Armita for me.
-Sure. Thanks.
Are you all right?
-Did you see Darioosh?
-Yeah, he's in the shower.
Do you need to see him?
No.
Is that a cold sore?
Yeah.
-Bye.
-Bye, hon.
[door closing]
[suspense music]
[faded man singing]
[sharp thud]
[buzzing]
[window opening]
[clock ticking noise]
Soheil: Can you please talk to
Farhad and solve your problem?
[suspense music]
[clanking sound]
[switch on]
Darioosh!
[suspense music]
[PC starting]
It's a virus! Is it your first time?
No, but...
- I thought it was something supernatural.
- Do me a favour though
Never attach your work
flash drive to my laptop, please.
-It could ruin our life!
-Sure.
I saw Farhad the other
day. He wanted to see me.
Are you going to see him?
Shouldn't I go?
There's no point in seeing him.
Why?
He just works up your brain!
I would even delete
his number if I were you.
Why don't you go to bed?
Go get some sleep! The kid
wakes you up early enough as it is!
All right.
I'll fix this.
Goodnight!
[thud]
[thud]
[paper rustling]
Stop this endless process of studying.
I've been waiting a long time for you.
Don't you want to go to
a more reasonable place?
No, I just need to ask you a few questions.
And here I thought you've
accepted my invitation.
Can you tell me what's
your problem with Darioosh?
Our relationship has
always been problematic.
Are you sure it's nothing new?
We sometimes update our problems.
What do you mean?
We recently had some
conflict of interests at work.
And unfortunately going on
like this won't benefit any of us.
Not least Darioosh!
Is that why you wanted to see me?
Look...
I'd like you to get him out of my way.
You've always wanted
to watch him fall flat.
Be a tad professional!
I'm offering you a deal!
Over what?
-Darioosh?
-Your future!
What do you think of me?
You used to be a university
top student in your major.
What happened to all your dreams?
Sitting at home and writing for different
magazines and journals has fossilised you.
Look!
I can help you realise your dreams!
How about the Women
Section's Deputy at the Ministry?
Obviously you deserve it too.
But you too can help me get what I deserve.
Yes?
There's nothing to it really.
All you need to do is
convince Darioosh to resign
from his position a bit earlier than
he's planned to leave the organisation.
That easy!
Neither Darioosh is planning
to leave the organisation,
nor I have any dreams
that could be realised by you!
Soheil used to say a lot of such stuff
too before leaving the organisation.
-Did Soheil leave willingly?
-Didn't you know that?
It just got interesting!
What is this friend of
yours, Yassaman, good for?
-How long has it been?
-Several months!
Since Dr Alimohammadi's assassination.
What has Dr Alimohammadi's
assassination got to do with Soheil?
Darioosh doesn't talk to
you that often, does he?
-He tells whatever I need to know.
-Really?
Has he told you anything about
his relation with Alimohammadi?
No.
How about Dr Shahriari?
Huh?
Shahriari was ambushed and killed last night
in a highway with his wife next to him.
Has he told you that?
Or maybe it wasn't
something you needed to know.
But I recommend you to do a little
googling and read the last resolutions.
You'll find some
interesting stuff in there.
[suspense music]
Now that you don't seem to know
anything about current affairs...
Aside from Darioosh, five other people
were supposed to go to Hannover too.
All five of them are now in
Hannover. Did you know that?
You did not.
[crinkling]
Excuse me, may I use your
computer for a few minutes?
Thanks.
[typing]
Dr Shahriari's Assassination.
Attempted assassination of 2
Physics university professors.
[typing]
Unknown fate of Dr Shahriari.
The assassination of two physics
professors at Shahid Beheshti University.
How Dr Shahriari was assassinated.
Details on the assassination of
nuclear scientist Majid Shahriari.
Two men passed us fast on
a motorcycle. [Woman's voice]
They stuck something to the car in front of
us and I don't remember what happened next.
[motorbike engine]
[tense cinematic music]
[engine stops]
[chaotic uproar of voices]
[tense cinematic music]
[explosion sound, glass shattering]
[shrieking noise]
Dr Saghian has not
coordinated this with us.
All right. That's him. Dr Saghian?
-Mr Saghian?
-Hi.
What are you doing here?
It's fine. She can come in.
- I need to talk to you for a few seconds.
- All right. I'll be right behind you.
-Hello, doctor!
-Hi.
It's important.
Why did you come here?
I'm so busy now. Call me
late at night and we will talk.
Why didn't you send Darioosh to Hannover?
-Is that why you're here?
-Yes.
I told you to be patient. We need to
negotiate with them and see what we can do.
Are you negotiating for the 5 men
who are already in Hannover too?
Darioosh knows the answer
to these questions too.
If he hasn't told you, you
probably don't need to know.
I just want to know if this is
related to my marriage with Darioosh.
-What's that?
-The last resolution.
[paper rustling]
I want to know if Darioosh has worked
in one of the projects mentioned here.
Give me your phone.
Some issues are classified documents.
Your position will change if you
know about them. Do you get that?
Yes, but it doesn't matter at
all. I want to know everything.
You're not supposed to know everything.
I'm going to tell you
all that I can tell you.
But you should not ask
more questions afterwards.
Darioosh has been part of an important
project mentioned in the resolution.
It's only natural to stop
you from traveling abroad.
Dr Alimohammadi was on the same project?
Yes.
Please don't tell me Dr
Shahriari was part of it too.
I was too.
Like many others.
Nuclear science is like the forbidden city.
If you're a useful person and
set foot in one such project...
You won't be likeable for many
countries and organisations anymore.
Those who work in this
system know that very well.
All right, I've got a meeting now.
[camera shutter clicking]
Can I ask you a few questions,
doctor? Doctor? Doctor?
[camera shutter clicking]
[tense cinematic music]
[clanking sound]
-It's so difficult!
-Yeah. This one is rotten too.
-They're all rotten.
-Do you want me to wash one for you?
-Where is your lemon juice, Shohreh?
-It's here.
[clanking sound]
This will make a delicious
sauce. Do you all like lemon juice?
I don't care. Add whatever you like.
[clanking sound]
-The plate is here.
-Thanks.
[clanking sound]
-Wow! What a nice smell! Let me take that.
-No, thanks.
Yassi?
Hum?
What's wrong with her?
I don't know.
They assassinated two
university lecturers... [TV noises]
On their way to work with
their families next to them.
Well done to you and Darioosh!
All households are like
this. You know what I mean?
- See how he theorises his own laziness?
- Wow! Darioosh-made kebab!
Shohreh, will you bring the rice?
You haven't grilled the tomatoes enough.
[clanking sound]
Thank you. [Clanking sound]
-Well, whose turn...
-My turn.
-Miss Yasmin.
-Why?
-Thank you.
-Because of her child.
Do not worry about Sohail
working. He has already been fired.
Easy for him to do all the housework.
Not dismissal...
First, I was not fired, and
then I am not jobless either.
Shahreh, dear.
Here you go dear.
Dad, should I turn this on?
Armita and I will blow
the candles together.
3... 2... 1!
[cheering and clapping hands]
-Happy birthday!
-Happy birthday!
- I wish you a long healthy life!
- Here's my gift for you, dad.
Wow! Look at this!
Look what she's made for her daddy!
That's mummy! And this one is you, dad!
Why do I look like a
Samovar? Am I made of metal?
-That's because you're so strong!
-Oh! And what are these?
A tree, the sun, a bird and that's a cloud.
That's the cloud. Then where is my Armita?
I'm right here, dad!
Are you really? I thought you
were there. [Gentle smooch]
Now, should we eat the
cake or open the gifts first?
-Gifts!
-Fine. Whose gift?
-Mummy Shohreh!
-Mummy Shohreh!
All right, let's open mummy's gift!
[paper rustling]
We'll open your gift too.
But first, whose gift is it?
-I'm sure it's just a pair of socks!
-No, I think it's a watch.
-Socks! Let's make a bet!
-It's a watch!
I promise it's a watch! [Clanking sound]
- Why don't you open our gift first?
- We'll see it's a watch when we open it!
Shohreh?
How are you? [Clanking sound]
-Take this for the cake.
-Is something the matter?
No, it's nothing. I'll be right with you.
Go.
Wow! Congratulations!
Congratulations! [Clapping hands]
You guys have such a good taste.
Stop it man, will you?
[laughing]
Shohreh? Honey?
-Yes?
-Can you join us for a second?
Congratulations!
-I have a confession to make tonight.
-Go ahead!
I have never been a
good friend all these years.
I know.
Shohreh and I have been
married 8-9 years now.
-8-9 years already?
-Yeah.
Every single year of it, my lovely
wife has thrown a birthday party for me.
With a special gift every year.
And yet every single year, I've
forgotten about her birthday.
-But this is not an original watch.
-It is.
It's not. She's a master at
buying fake goods. Is this original?
It is, Soheil! Congratulations!
And my wife can easily tell the
difference between original and fake.
It's so beautiful, Shohreh.
Congratulations!
Since tonight is my birthday, I want to say
some prayers and you'll say Amen to them.
You're going to make us
sad again? Fine, go ahead!
I hope until we get old, forever...
Shohreh will remember my birthday.
I hope till the end of time...
Just like this, this very moment...
You'll be loved by her
or love her just this much.
-Say it already.
-Stop it, guys!
Say it already! I tell her 1000
times everyday that I love her.
She doesn't want me
to say it in front of others!
Hats off to you!
-Shall we eat the cake now?
-Yes, let's do that!
[clanking sound]
You've taken my heart
away. [Persian song playing]
O, my merciless lover. [Muffled voice]
[Persian song playing]
[muffled voice]
Wow!
[Persian song playing]
You got so tired tonight.
I wasn't tired.
I was humiliated.
When I'm the only stranger
in a Four-man crowd.
When there is something that
everyone knows about, except me.
At least it means that my
husband doesn't trust me.
[tapping]
Can you say what I've kept from you?
Was Soheil fired from work?
He asked me to tell you that way.
Why would someone want
others to think he was fired?
I don't know.
What does it matter?
What was the 3-man show you guys
just performed if it doesn't matter?
[tapping]
Soheil and Yassaman's
life is not our business.
Darioosh, I know everything about your job.
I know how sensitive your
job and our situation is.
Then please stop humiliating
yourself in front of me.
You don't know anything. [Sharp thud]
You don't need to know anything either.
I'll tell you whatever you need to know.
[clanking sound]
And I'm worried much more
than you about our life. Over!
[door closing]
[suspense music]
How about Soheil? Is he
happy with his new situation?
Of course he is!
Didn't you watch Shahriari's
wife's interview the other day?
It's so sad. I wouldn't wish it on anyone!
Why would he stay
there? It was too stressful.
And we have our baby because of
the compensation package he got..
And made IVF a viable option for us.
It's either a girl or a boy.
For 10 years I've only attended baby
showers. It's my turn to throw one one.
I want to do the best I can for my baby.
[kids chattering]
Yassi!
-I need something from you.
-What is it? Do you need money?
Not really.
Can you ask Soheil to offer
Darioosh a job at his company?
-Has he resigned?
-He's going to.
Why doesn't he ask Soheil
himself? They're friends.
You know how important
self-esteem is for Darioosh?
He'll be under too much
pressure leaving the organisation.
I can only imagine how hard
it'll be for him to ask for favours.
- Doesn't my husband have any self-esteem?
- I don't mean that.
As a board member it's only natural
for him to offer someone a job.
I thought you might be able to ask him.
Sure, I will tell him.
Soheil would love that.
[street noises]
[movie noises]
-Can I open my eyes, dad?
-Not yet.
Now you can look, sweetie.
That's my girl!
Will you please change seats with mum?
No, I like my seat!
No, you'll have a better view there.
-Damn!
-Come on, sweetie!
There you go, sweetheart.
Sit here, honey.
[rustling]
[movie noises]
What is this?
It's a gift.
What's the occasion?
It doesn't need an occasion.
Thank you!
-This is empty, Darioosh!
-I know.
I had ordered the ring, but the
store has been late on delivering it.
Accept my apology. They'll
send it as soon as it's ready.
I don't want a ring. Just don't lie to me.
Yes, ma'am.
I'm sorry.
And don't you even again raise your
voice on me! It makes me really upset.
- I did not raise my voice.
- Yeah. But I just felt like telling you that.
Fine. I won't say a word.
And put this apology box in
my bag. I don't want to lose it.
So from now on, you'll tell
me everything I need to know.
Alright?
The most important one is that they're
not that stupid to want to assassinate me.
Shahriari and Alimohammadi were
prominent figures in the organisation.
-I'm nothing like them.
-Stop it.
You should resign.
What? Why are you looking at me like that?
[sudden thud]
Up until a while ago, no one dared
mentioning those lads' names in front of you.
It was just after the
election and I was angry.
It doesn't mean I want to quit.
But I'm not saying anything unreasonable.
You've done this job so far.
You can take a new job now.
Don't you know me?
Am I that kind of person?
I've invested my youth in this job.
Should I now just find another job?
I did not suggest you should
open a grocery shop or anything.
You can work in a relevant company.
It'll be less stressful and more
comfortable. Don't you think?
I don't know. I'm sure you
have friends in such companies.
Like the one Soheil is working for.
He's your friend and we've
known them for a long time.
It won't feel like an
unknown territory for you.
-Fine.
-Promise that. I'm counting on your word.
Yeah. I promise.
[roaring of thunder]
[faded man singing]
Assassination of Muslim Scientists
[typing]
[phone vibrating]
[phone vibrating]
Yes?
Ms Pirani. The silence tells me
everyone is asleep in your home now.
-Who is this?
-Think of me as a simple operator.
I'd take what I'm about
to tell you seriously.
I'll cut to the chase.
What I want from you is simple.
But it will benefit you far
more than you could imagine.
What?
Turn on your husband's laptop
and connect it to the internet.
You'll then wait for 3 minutes.
You can then turn it off
and put it back in its place.
Why should I do that?
Because I'm the one dealing
with Darioosh's case now.
And I can't promise you that if
this doesn't resolve peacefully.
And the case is transferred
to someone else...
What might happen in the next phase.
I want you to look at the next
72 hours as an opportunity.
If Darioosh learns about our conversation,
that will be the end of this window.
And I won't be able to help you anymore.
I can tell you'll need more
time to make up your mind.
I can understand that. But I
will close this case in 72 hours.
I hope you will have taken
the right decision by then.
Please consider the next
72 hours as an opportunity.
[hang up beep]
[window closing]
[curtains drawn shut]
[door closing]
Darioosh?
[tense cinematic music]
[tense cinematic music]
[car door unlocking]
[tense cinematic music]
[car door closing]
[car engine starting]
-We couldn't trace the call.
-Is it serious?
Blackmail and threat
happens very often in this job.
But I don't remember a case
where they called the target's family.
- What do you think I should do?
- Push him to get out of that organisation.
Everyday counts.
Look! I don't think you should
tell anyone about this for now.
You know what I mean?
Will they leave us alone
if he leaves his job?
He'll have to turn in all
the information he's got.
And when he stops working there, he won't
be considered a target for them anymore.
Why don't you help him?
Invite him to come and work with you.
I swear to god, Shohreh, I'd love that.
We were even discussing
it with Yassi last night.
Don't say this to Darioosh.
But he's a legend in our
work. You see what I mean?
[paper rustling]
Excuse me. Drink your tea
and I'll be right back with you.
[paper rustling]
-What happened?
-I don't know. He just got mad!
Go away, you good-for-nothing! Go!
[office noises]
-Excuse me.
-What is Farhad doing here?
He's the board's chief.
-Is he your boss?
-He just acts like a boss.
We do all the work
and he just... God forbid!
So you are aware of the
reason why Darioosh and...
Farhad have their
differences in the organisation?
Our company is focused on one
of the organisation's big projects.
It is vital for Farhad to get this project.
Dr Saghian has given Darioosh
authority over ratifying
the proposal and its executive
standards. He doesn't approve it.
Then there must be something wrong with it.
My sister...
Hundreds of projects are approved with
no supervision in this country every day.
Yes, that's because only this
one has been given to Darioosh.
You two are just like one another!
The rules you have made for yourselves
doesn't conform with outside reality.
I'd never set foot in here if you had
told me Farhad was your boss here.
There are plenty of fish in the
sea. Darioosh will find another job.
Only there aren't.
It's not like we produce pots or kettles.
There are only 2-3 companies
dealing with such projects.
Which one would be stupid
enough to hire someone
who has worked in the most
confidential projects in the country?
You can't blame them for not
wanting to lose their business.
As soon as Darioosh
sets his foot in a company...
Its risks of getting sanctioned
goes up to 70 per cent.
I'm nothing compared to Darioosh. And
even I am working here under an alias.
Are you thinking about going to Farhad now?
Just try to convince Darioosh instead.
Convincing Darioosh is
much harder than Farhad.
Don't you know Darioosh?
Fine. But wait for me to talk to him first.
[sizzling sound]
Hi. Did you talk to Farhad?
Ouch! [Thud]
[thud]
[clanking sound]
Are you going out again
tonight? [Water splashing]
Yes. Mr Saghian
called. He said it's urgent.
It's all right to perform ablution with
this much ink stain on my hand, right?
What happened to your hand?
I got distracted and
stuck my hand to the pan.
Why didn't you put
something on it? It's too red.
We had this lotion in the fridge.
Come here for a second, Shohreh.
[rustling]
-I need to tell you something, Darioosh.
-Sure.
[roaring of thunder]
I was working on the computer yesterday...
Right.
Then an unknown number called me.
And?
[roaring of thunder]
Will you come play with me, daddy?
Yes, sweetie. I'm coming.
Hold your hand straight.
Who called you?
-What?
-Who called you?
Nothing. It was nothing.
It was about a few research proposals.
It requires a lot of heavy work.
I need to borrow your laptop.
Since when people get a birthday gift back?
Just for a short while!
When will you clean the data in it?
-My Henas!
-Yes?
We're talking about everything that I have
worked for in my life. Give me some time.
We have already made
our decision, Darioosh.
You promised to resign.
Don't go back on your word!
-Fine.
-You promised!
Sure. I'll talk to Saghian tonight.
Get it over with, Darioosh!
[raining sound]
[dramatic music]
Letter of Resignation
Mommy give me the keys... give me the keys
[suspense music]
Hello Ma'm -Hello
This cat had gone under
your car. I had to save him.
[cat is purring]
-Would you like to hold him?
-Yes.
No, sir. Thank you. You may leave now.
I wanted to caress the cat, mum!
[car door closing]
Can I go through dad's pockets, mum?
No, you shouldn't do that, honey.
But daddy allows me to do
that. Daddy allows me to do that.
Where did you get this, Armita?
It was in daddy's pocket.
Letter of Resignation
You know... when I get too
busy at the organisation...
I send Darioosh to teach on
my behalf at the university.
And every single time
when I go back, I find out...
That he knows much
more that I thought he did.
He hadn't told me this either.
Letter of Resignation
I wish he only taught at university.
Has Darioosh written this?
I think he's too shy to
bring it to you himself.
There's nothing to be shy about.
I just wanted to get your consult.
I wish you had waited for
him to bring it to you himself.
[thud]
Do you really think that
your husband is irreplaceable?
I hope you'll fine someone to replace him.
That way my conscience
would be in less pain.
I'd rather hear you ask me then
why I have held onto him for 15 years.
Why have you held onto him for
15 years and won't let go of him?
[door closing]
Hello, doctor.
I'm done.
Your prediction was right.
They have worked very
meticulously on all the engines.
They know what they're doing.
Thank god we managed to
identify them. [Click of the lighter]
I'll send you the report tomorrow.
If it wasn't for Darioosh, god knows what
disaster was going to happen at the site.
I didn't know that either.
Then you probably don't know
this either. In our line of job...
When two people are assassinated
in the space of a few months...
It means the world when we manage to
destroy a very critical espionage system.
I'm sure I'm worrying you even more.
If it's leaked how we have
stopped their destruction machine.
We'll move a few steps
higher on their black list.
Why are you telling me this stuff now?
There were other people
who could do his job.
But they opted for other ways.
Darioosh could've done that too.
Darioosh's work commitment
shouldn't allow you to exploit him.
You haven't known him yet
after 10 years of marriage?
No one can blackmail Darioosh!
Not even I could do that!
When he believes something is right,
he doesn't consider the cons and pros.
Or else he'd have obtained
several PhDs by now.
That's a very good reason for you
to consider his resignation seriously.
What matters is the future of the
country Armita is going to grow up in.
Darioosh knows that
better than everyone else.
All these years... even
now that we are talking here.
He has never felt any doubt
about continuing this path.
Not even after the election which
had left a bitter taste in his mouth.
Speak frankly please.
The paper in your hand.
Is your own resignation, not his.
[door opening]
Don't eat cream. It'll give you heartburn.
Fine. This is my last bite.
[clanking sound]
The frog needs a bite!
The frog needs a bite!
Here, sweetie.
I want to take her to the
ophthalmologist for her eyes.
That's great.
What's that? Aren't you going with us?
No, I'll be working late today.
Why don't you skip work today?
I can't. I'll be working late today.
It's out of my hands.
Everyone in that organisation controls
their own fate. Everyone but you!
So you prioritise your
work over your child.
[clanking sound]
What are you talking about?
It's not about my fate.
I have committed to something
and have to respect that.
That's right.
Another bite, daddy!
One with butter!
[kid laughing]
[clanking sound]
I can take a day off tomorrow
so we can take her together.
I'll take her today.
What difference does it make?
We can take her tomorrow.
It makes a difference to me.
[swishing]
This colour looks really good on you!
My Henas.
I know you've got really tired.
You're under a lot of stress and pressure.
But give me a few days.
I promise we will go
on a nice trip afterwards.
We'll go to Abdanan, just like old times.
It'll make you feel better.
Why do you speak of something
that's impossible for you.
Just a few weeks ago we were
fully prepared to move to Germany.
And then a sudden phone call or
whatever our life turned upside down.
I just want to know where
I'm standing in your life.
You're not my old times' Darioosh anymore.
The Darioosh that would
stand up to the world for me.
The Darioosh who wouldn't
do anything without my consent.
-I still believe in that.
-Don't! I don't want you to say it!
Because I don't believe you anymore.
We'd better not talk now
while you're so angry.
Didn't you just say my
consent still matters to you?
Why don't you talk to Saghian then?
Why don't you hand in your resignation?
I can do it for you if you can't!
[clanking sound]
-Are you threatening me now?
-Yes, I am.
I'd do anything for me, my life, for
the calm of my child and my husband.
-Even if I have to do it on my own!
-On your own?
Yes!
I'm the one who's been carrying
this stress on his own for 10 years!
I'm the lonely one, not you!
You mean I haven't been by
your side throughout these years?
Thank you for clarifying that!
I want to be there for you from now on.
-I want to lessen your stress.
-Shohreh!
Your comfort has been my
priority all these years! Get that!
I get that! But you took it
all away from me at once!
I expected much more from you.
I expected a lot more too.
But you could not keep
your word like a man!
Like a man!
[dramatic music]
Bravo!
[crying]
[door opening]
[door shutting]
[crying]
[dialing]
[dialing]
[ongoing dramatic music]
[dialing]
I'm sorry, Darioosh.
[phone vibrating]
[phone vibrating]
Yes?
If I can guess right, your
husband is not with you right now.
It hasn't been 72 hours yet, sir!
There's not much of it left either.
So I thought I might show
you something as well.
What?
Sit at your computer desk.
Why should I do that?
No questions!
Do as I say!
[suspense music]
[switch on]
[PC starting]
[rapid breathing]
There is a folder named
Armita on the desktop.
Look at the photos one by one.
Who's taken these photos?
The same person who's
put them in your computer!
Is this a threat?
Or maybe I just want what's best for you.
Protecting Armita in a safe
country with a safe income.
It's your choice now.
Apparently Mr Darioosh
has made up his mind.
[hang up beep]
[suspense music]
[tense cinematic music]
[door opening]
[dramatic music]
[crying]
[laptop starting]
[dramatic music]
Can you give me Farhad's number, Soheil?
I can't wait any longer.
So?
Stop walking so fast, Armita!
Take my words seriously!
Alright?
I'll wait for your call then. Bye.
-How much do I owe you, sir?
-Let me see...
Thanks.
[nylon rustling]
[suspense music]
-Do you like this?
-Sir!
What was he saying?
[door opening]
Let's go!
[nylon rustling]
-Thank you. Let's go.
-Have a good day.
Hurry up!
[tense cinematic music]
[office noises]
[knocking]
Hi. Where are you going?
I'm going to talk to him.
He's in a meeting now.
I don't have any more time, Soheil!
-Don't make him stubborn?
-What are you talking about?
Why don't you understand my situation?
Darioosh is taking pills all the time.
Every time he wants to use his car.
He first checks his remote keys
to make sure the car won't blow up!
He's even... [knocking]
-Shohreh?
-Yes?
-He's not a balanced man.
-I know.
You used to speak more
confidently at university.
Something is off about you.
I want you to ask
Darioosh to come here for...
No, no, no, no.
That's not the way to ask me.
Be confident.
Are you afraid of something?
Be the Shohreh Pirani you've always been.
[clanking sound]
-Sit down.
-What's the matter with you?
You were saying?
I'm asking you to bring
Darioosh to your company.
Your voice is shaking, right?
Yes, it is.
It's a bad feeling when your
voice shakes when you talk, isn't it?
I wanted to see you stronger than this.
You know, Ms Pirani.
Unlike Darioosh, I don't
feel like these businesses.
What's the end of it? A
medical scanning device.
Or some research catalyst.
Something that I don't
even know what good will do.
This stuff doesn't excite me, Ms Pirani.
You want to know what excites me?
This company.
The employees who get nervous
when they see me in the morning.
[clanking sound]
I tried to offer you a
more respectful deal.
But I admit that I like this one better.
I love this silence.
We have now taken the first step together
You have realised when to talk.
And when to remain silent.
Hush.
You picked a bad day
for coming here, Ms Pirani.
Today at 4 p.m., the final meeting
will be held to review our proposal.
It will possibly be rejected again.
See?
They're way out of line.
If you manage to get his signature
on my proposal before that meeting...
We'll be more than happy to have you here.
But if that doesn't happen.
You'll have to go back to your home town.
You can buy a couple of sheep.
And you'll be able to enjoy fresh
country air for the rest of your lives.
Did you say something?
[paper rustling, clanking sound]
[street noises]
[engine stops]
[car alarm goes off]
What would you do in my place?
I was exactly in your situation, Shohreh.
But I made up my mind.
Remember the day we were
sitting on the grass at university?
We were counting an
ideal husband's features.
[soft chuckle]
Yeah.
Remember none of our
ideal features were similar?
Yeah.
Except for one feature.
We both wanted our husbands to be crazy.
And the only ideal feature our
husbands turned out to have was 'crazy'.
Yeah.
If I go back in time 100 times, I'd still
support Soheil's decision every single time.
I wanted a calm life.
A better financial situation.
For that I paid a huge price too though.
What was that?
That Soheil lost his most
important feature in the process.
-Thank you, professor.
-Bye.
[tapping]
Are you happy?
I've got no personal problem with
you. Why would I be happy about this?
But you knew how important it was for
me and my company to get this project.
People exploit every
option they have in a fight.
This fight only exists in
your mind. It's not real.
Yeah.
I just lost a several million dollar
deal in my mind! It was not real!
Is money your problem now?
[sarcastic chuckle]
Why do you think Saghian has
given the decisive power over such..
A huge project to an ordinary
employee of the organisation?
Huh?
Do you know why you
were placed in the middle of...
Saghian, Alimohammadi
and Shahriari's projects?
What's your role in this, Darioosh?
Just look at yourself!
You are a distract or.
They're using you as their front.
You are a shield on the black list of
sanctions so that they can stay clear.
I feel for you, but you don't get it.
You're naive.
You're from out of town.
You had never lived in a
complex environment before.
Are you trying to change my mind here?
Then let me level with you.
I've closed your file a long time ago.
Really? Then let me close
your file too once and for all.
You'll need me much sooner
than you could imagine.
You'll be begging me in no time.
You'll struggle and you'll beg for my help.
I don't know which scenario
would be more interesting to me.
Whether you become my employee
right now and wait for me to sign...
Your check at the end of every
month for the rest of your life.
Or maybe a tad later, you
come and beg me to hire you...
And I ask security to kick
you out of the premises.
Then even if your wife begs
me, I won't be able to help you.
[tense cinematic music]
I don't what has your father fed you guys that
has turned you this way. It's your business.
But do whatever shit you
want in your own world.
I am from Abdanan. Do
you know where that is?
At the end of Ilam. On
the edge of the border.
People from around the border has a habit.
We break the legs of anyone
who tries to cross the border.
Don't you dare crossing the
border of my personal life!
And you'll get those dreams to the grave!
Rest assured!
[door closing]
There is only four of them.
Nothing is visible in this sky.
[fire crackling]
Don't you miss the Abdanan sky?
Of course I do.
I just don't mention it cause I'm afraid
you might suggest for us to move back there.
[soft chuckle]
I really wanted Armita to grow up there.
I know.
Hope she doesn't catch a cold.
Remember the war era tents in Abdanan?
Not so much.
But I heard about them from my dad.
[fire crackling]
I remember.
We used to live for a long time in one
of those tents during the bombardments.
Once, when I was in middle school.
I sulked with my dad over
his decision to go to the front
We had a very hard time.
And since I was the older
kid, I had to do everything.
Once as he was getting ready to leave.
I started pouting.
I did not go to say goodbye.
He suddenly came back inside.
He.
Held my wrist very tightly.
He dragged me outside into the town.
I couldn't believe my eyes, Shohreh.
In a matter of months, all my
childhood memories had turned to ruins.
The street we used to play football in.
My school.
The local mosque.
I still the smell of
blood from all over town.
I saw so many people whose eyes were
wide open but had stopped breathing.
Every part of that town was a
pretext for our play and daydreaming.
But now it had become the
world's most unsafe place.
I felt as if someone whom I did not know
had stamped on all my childhood and left.
[faded sound of RPG]
When my dad showed me everywhere.
He let go of my hand.
He did not say another word and left.
I can still feel his grip around my wrist.
Shohreh!
I have studied all my life.
But they are now bullying us.
They want to take everything from me.
It's not just about my job.
I'm from this land.
I haven't been raised to say yes to
anyone who just raises his voice on me.
I don't know if I leave
this responsibility...
Will I ever again be able to
look myself in the eyes in a mirror?
[dramatic music]
Can you imagine that Darioosh, Shohreh?
There are always others to replace me.
But I want Armita to be proud
of me when she grows up.
I want her to remember me as someone
who stood his ground no matter what.
I don't allow myself to take
that decision on my own.
I need your help to be
able to make this decision.
I love this Darioosh so much.
[fire crackling]
Which Shohreh do you love?
You already know the answer.
Then there's nothing to be decided.
Shohreh.
Do you know the price of this decision?
[ongoing dramatic music]
I really don't know what might
happen. [Voice over narration]
I don't know how much
of these threats are real.
Or how much of them are
just a plot to scare me away.
But of one thing I am assured.
I want Armita to be able
to have a normal childhood.
-Let's go!
-Hold on! Hold on! Now!
-Now let's race to the car!
-Let's go fast!
Now! [Screaming]
[car doors opening]
Help! Help! Help!
[screaming]
What is it? [Laughing]
Why are you shouting?
Sorry, Darioosh!
You wanted us to practice this, right?
I want you to be the same energetic Shohreh
I've been in love with for the past 10 years.
I am sure I have a lot of plans
for my future. [Master's thesis]
I don't want to give up on any of
my dreams. [Voice over narration]
Let's drink a cup of tea.
Hold the screw on the bottom. Come on.
We're supposed to
live our life like before.
Just as normal.
Just as peaceful.
But what's going to happen eventually?
[dramatic music]
I'd rather not think about it.
Look, Auntie! Look how
she eats! [Baby moaning]
-Wow!
-Here it comes!
-Can we eat some of that too?
-Sure.
[ongoing dramatic music]
-Mummy?
-Yes, sweetie?
Is it daddy's birthday today?
No, sweetheart. It's
daddy's graduation party.
-What does 'graduation' mean?
-Try to explain that to her!
It means your dad's studies has ended.
Then why do you want to throw
me a party when I start school?
Some people celebrate both the
beginning and the end of their school
-So daddy went to school too?
-No.
Then why are you celebrating this?
We just want to celebrate
for no reason. Is it bad?
-Hurray!
-Your glasses are so dirty. Hurray!
-It's so great!
-Yes!
Will you buy gifts too?
-Yes.
-No!
-No?
-I just bought toys for her recently.
-But daddy said so!
-No!
-No. Daddy didn't know.
-Armita! Armita! Here!
O, beautiful star! [Persian song playing]
Sequin of the torn cloud!
Whether Off or glowing?
[Persian song playing]
Whether awake or asleep.
Tell me when you were
awake, didn't you see my daddy?
I saw him pass by here...
He went up there in the sky!
Bravo, daddy! You sang it perfectly!
Yes, I've been singing since my childhood.
Or maybe you only sing my songs so well.
-Yes!
-Are you taunting me now, sweetheart?
-Daddy?
-Yes?
What does 'taunting' mean?
It's when you talk indirectly
about something that has upset you.
Did I taunt mummy now?
Yes, you did a little bit.
-Armita!
-Yes?
-You should never make mummy upset.
-Fine.
Now go kiss mummy and make it up to her.
I love you so much.
[gentle smooch]
Sit down. Don't eat any more
cheese puffs. [Door opening]
It's about lunch time.
Don't you want to go inside?
Dear.
[door opening]
[light clicking]
[engine sound]
[zipper opening]
[gun sound]
Close your eyes, sweetheart.
[gun shot]
[gun shot]
[gun shot]
[gun shot]
[gun shot]
[screaming]
[car door opening, crying]
Get him!
Help!
Get him!
Help! [Motorbike engine, gun shots]
[motorbike fading]
[dramatic music]
[ongoing dramatic music]
Master's Thesis.
[light switch]
[phone ringing]
[thuds]
[phone ringing]
[phone ringing]
You and your gifts!
[teary sniffles]
[door opening]
Look what they just got me!
I got something too
-Is it nice?
-It is.
[clanking sound]
Thank you so much, ma'am.
He has lots of information in his computer. I'm
sure he wouldn't want them to remain unused.
It's just that... What's the password?
If you kindly give it to us, we won't
need the help of our cyber team.
He never gave me the password.
What was the password
of your home computer?
Try Armita.
[error sound]
Abdanan!
[error sound]
Try Abdanan plus his birth year.
[error sound]
Now do the same with Armita.
[error sound]
Henas!
-Is it Kurdish?
-Yes.
It means 'breath'.
[error sound]
Will you give me a second?
My Henas.
[laptop starting]
It's unlocked.
[cinematic music]
Shohreh!
My Henas!
Yes?
Do you know what this decision means?
I'll be with you till the very end.
[cinematic music]
[ongoing cinematic music]
Henas.
A free interpretation of
the life of Shohreh Pirani,
wife of the great martyr,
Darioosh Rezaeinejad.
Director: Hossein Darabi.
Producer: Mohammadreza Shafah.
Executive Producer: Kamran Hejazi.
Writers: Ehsan Saghafi, Mahdieh Einollahi.
Merila Zare'i.
Behrooz Shoeibi.
Vahid Rahbani.
Solmaz Ghani.
Amin Miri.
Alireza Naeini.
Child Actress: Kossar Heidari.
With: Siavash Tahmoores.
Production Manager: Peiman Hejazi.
Director of Photography: Majid Gorjian.
Editor: Siavash Kordjan.
Sound Editing and Mixing: Arash Ghassemi.
Set Design: Behzad Jafari Tadi.
Sound Recordist: Mohammad Shahverdi.
Make-up Design: Siamak Ahmadi.
Costume Design: Soossan Noroozi.
Casting: Kioomars Moradi.
Programmer: Mohammadreza Keshmiri.
First Assistant Director:
Saleh Gharbi Javan.
Visual Effects: Mohammad Lotfali.
Special Effects: Arash Aghabeik.
Purchasing Manager: Mohsen Maghareh Abed.
Scene Secretary: Ghazal Rashidi.
Photographer: Hamid Zarrabi.
This is a true story.
[motorbike engine, gun shots]
[motorbike fading]
Henas.
[light tapping]
[clinking]
[clinking]
-Ms Pirani?
-Yes, Ms Karimi?
- They're on their way.
- Please let me know if you find anything.
[door opening]
[door shutting]
Darioosh! [Knocking]
Darioosh!
Yes, Shohreh? [Water splashing]
Her husband has the key to
the utility room. He's on his way.
What's the matter anyway?
I wanted to turn off the
water tap, but it got broken.
Really?
Can't you do something?
We'll be too late, Darioosh!
The building will be flooded with
water if I don't take care of this.
Hand me the Monkey wrench
from the took kit. [Water splashing]
The Monkey wrench?
-Here you are.
-Give it.
-Yes?
-Ma'am?
Yes? Yes?
This is not the Monkey wrench.
-Shohreh!
-Here's the Monkey wrench.
Can I play with the water
too? [Water splashing]
Get out, honey. You'll get wet!
Wow! This is so much fun!
Armita!
Oh my god! You're soaked!
[door closing]
[gurgling sound]
[door opening]
I stopped it.
Oh God!
You shouldn't get a cold
just before our departure.
Take off your shirt, I'll get you a towel.
I'll change your shirt. [Mobile ringing]
All right.
[mobile ringing]
Get me my phone, please.
-Don't touch anything, Armita!
-Do you need anything, dad?
No, honey. Thanks. Give
it to me. [Mobile ringing]
It's from work.
Just ignore it! They're going to
give you some last minute task!
We're running late!
[mobile and phone ringing]
-Don't answer it!
-It's my mum.
Oh, answer it then.
-Hey, mum!
-Take off your shirt.
How are you?
How is dad?
[speaking in German]
I don't understand what you're saying, mum!
Come on, Armita! We worked
so much on learning German!
[speaking in Kurdish]
Darioosh! Darioosh!
[thuds]
Hello! Hi, dear!
Hi!
How are you?
-What are you doing, sweetie?
-Hi, grandma!
You're sitting on the couch
with your wet trousers?
Sorry. It'll be dry when we
come back a year from now.
After experiencing a month of life
there, we'll never think of coming back.
You did not drink the syrup!
It's a 6 or 7-hour flight, Darioosh!
I want to carry my baggage of
sorrow and sadness on my shoulders...
And limp with a cane towards
the desert of non-existence.
Even Dr Chamran lived in
the US for 20 years. Drink this!
Thank you. He lived there for 14 years.
There's no difference.
Dry your hair well! You
don't want to catch a cold!
Yes, ma'am!
[popping sound]
Oh, my!
What happened? The Phone just turned off!
It's a power-cut, sweetie.
Daddy used the plug I've been
telling him to fix for six months!
-I'll fix it now.
-What will you fix?
- We're going to miss the flight, hon.
- We can't leave without fixing the power.
- You did not drink your syrup!
- Have you ever got on a plane, dad?
Yes, sweetie! Let's fly now!
[mimicking airplane]
Go higher and higher!
[cheerful giggle]
Yay!
Look at my princess!
We want to race to the car,
daddy! [Persian song playing]
Great!
Ready? 1... 2... 3!
1... 2... 3... 4... 5...
6. [Car door unlocking]
O, cute sparrow! [Persian song playing]
You jump so high!
Your wings are the same colour as soil!
You have a kind and pure heart.
[airplane engine]
Hurry up, guys! We'll have to walk
to the plane if we don't catch the bus!
Let her walk! I'll hold her hand.
Hurry up, man! I'll pay you a good tip too!
[roar of chatter]
The goods in Hanover are terrible!
Get me some terrible souvenir from Hanover!
Thank you.
Here you are!
-Let's go!
-Yeah.
Where are you going? [Mobile ringing]
Let me answer my phone for a second.
Hold on! Hold on! Let me...
[mobile ringing]
-Hello?
-Oh god!
-I was about to fall!
-Hello...
Yes.
-Yassi?
-Yes?
Don't forget to take my
flowers to your place.
No worries. I'll take them.
[airport announcement]
[suspense music]
[rolling sound]
[sharp thud, scream]
Damn!
What are you doing sir?
Weren't you supposed not to take these?
-Daddy said so!
-Did he?
You promised to leave them at
home if you wore the dress you wanted!
We should gather them all now!
- Are you going to take all these with you?
- No way! She's driving me crazy!
-Soheil!
-Yes?
Do you know who called Darioosh?
Angela! His German wife! [Clinking]
Where is Darioosh anyway? [Clinking]
[suspense music]
[singing song]
[suspense music]
-Is something the matter?
-Don't know!
-When are we getting on the plane?
-Right away, sweetie.
[airplane engine]
[sheets swishing]
[yawning]
[switch off]
[PC shutting]
[door creaking]
[deep breathing]
Darioosh?
Go to bed.
My sweetie...
-Get up, Darioosh!
-Can you give me a piece of paper?
Did you solve a problem
in your sleep again?
[clanking sound]
Here...
Darioosh!
Listen...
Do you want me to talk to Dr Saghian?
No.
I'll talk to him myself.
But you get shy when dealing with him.
You don't express yourself.
I want to see why we should
be held at the airport gate.
Right now...
An email just came for you
from the German university.
Did you reply?
No...
They had asked us to go to the
offices to determine our dorm room.
They probably have not informed
that section of our cancellation.
It's Germany we're talking about.
Darioosh, Don't write on your
palm. I'll get you a paper. Hold on.
I'll get it at once.
[switch on]
[clicking sound]
[suspense music]
[weaving the car]
Hey, ma'am.
[car horn]
What the hell? [Weaving the car]
[clanking, car door opening]
[car door closing]
[footsteps]
[knocking on the window]
Didn't you notice that I was
parking my car here? Hey!
I'm...
Hush!
Relax!
This is a research lab!
I can move my car if you want.
No, I'll just park my car somewhere else.
I hear you got deported!
News travel fast!
Why do you think it even matters to me?
You wouldn't know about it if
it didn't. [Car door unlocking]
They keep asking me
to come here these days.
You hear all sorts of unwanted
stuff. [Car door closing]
But I'm glad I saw you.
Let's meet somewhere.
What for?
For work. How about meeting in a cafe?
Fine. Later.
[weaving the car]
[office sounds]
[knocking]
Hello! Hi!
-Hi there.
-Hi, Why are you so late?
I got stuck in the parking lot for a while.
-Where is Armita?
-She's with Dr Saghian!
I brought you food.
Don't spoil him so much! Let his
beat-up stomach get used to our food here!
You keep spoiling your wife!
She's craving Falafel now!
Falafel beats Beef Stroganoff any day.
- Check on her more often!
- We were supposed to be in Germany now!
So you shouldn't be
counting on me. But all right!
Bye, Darioosh!
Bye.
-Come in, please, Ms Pirani.
-Yes, thank you.
- There's enough food for all of you gentlemen.
- Thank you.
-Saeid?
-Sir?
Will you please get Dr
Ghazanfari's research results?
Yes, sir.
-Reza?
-Sir?
Can you go help him as well?
Yes, I'll go help get the results.
Should I put these here, Mr Rezaeinejad?
Yes, sure.
Did you like how I called his surname?
[talking Kurdish]
-Sweetheart?
-Yeah, baby?
Do not pick on Dr Saghian.
It was not his fault that
our trip was cancelled.
I've already talked to him.
The German university has
cancelled the arrangement,
and the lads are already
negotiating with them.
[clanking sound]
We'd have nowhere to go there.
They've barred you
from leaving the country.
[clanking sound]
Why would they do that?
It's probably political, Darioosh
It must be related to
the post election protests.
I swear to god. You'll
see. [Clanking sound]
Who could have seen us in
the middle of that huge crowd?
The ones in charge can see everyone!
-Hi.
-Hello there! We're here!
Hi. Your hands will get greasy!
Here. Take this instead.
-Thank you.
-You're welcome.
You'll make our professor
go bankrupt one day!
-Is that so?
-No worries. I'll make you work for it.
It's my honour. [Laughing]
Just please tell him why
our trip was cancelled.
We just talked about this, Shohreh.
No. We've been preparing
for this trip since a year ago.
What's going to happen
to Darioosh's thesis now?
It's only been 24 hours
since the cancellation.
And it's the weekend over there.
Be patient! It will be all right.
Fine.
Will you stay for lunch, Shohreh?
-No, I'm leaving.
-So is Armita then.
-Yes!
-No, I want to stay!
No, honey.
I've made you macaroni
with salad and a special sauce.
-We'll take these as well. Say bye now.
-Bye!
Bye. Then we won't unpack our bags, doctor.
Have a little patience, my daughter.
Goodbye. [Laughing]
[office noises]
Darioosh!
Yes, sir?
Dr Shahriari is coming here today.
-Really?
-Yes, yes.
We're going to negotiate a new project.
Do not bore him with your questions.
Or I'll expel you from the meeting.
No worries, sir.
There are scratches all over the blender.
Who's poured buttons and
this rubbish stuff in a blender?
[door unlocking]
Is it you, Darioosh?
[key jingling]
[door closing]
Welcome home!
-Hi.
-Daddy! Daddy!
-Yeah?
-Mummy wants to throw away all my stuff. She said...
Go to your room! I'm not in the mood now.
Armita? Dad is tired now.
Let's get you to your room, sweetie.
We will tidy up your room later.
Daddy needs to rest a little bit.
[door closing]
[water splashing]
Are you having a shower, Darioosh?
[doorbell ringing]
[door opening]
Hi! Come in!
Hi, Shohreh!
No, thanks.
Here. Darioosh had left his bag in our car.
What is Darioosh's bag doing in your hand?
We gave him a lift.
Soheil had come to pick me
up and we offered him a lift too.
Had he come with you?
-Come on in.
-No, Soheil is waiting in the car.
-Kiss Armita for me.
-Sure. Thanks.
Are you all right?
-Did you see Darioosh?
-Yeah, he's in the shower.
Do you need to see him?
No.
Is that a cold sore?
Yeah.
-Bye.
-Bye, hon.
[door closing]
[suspense music]
[faded man singing]
[sharp thud]
[buzzing]
[window opening]
[clock ticking noise]
Soheil: Can you please talk to
Farhad and solve your problem?
[suspense music]
[clanking sound]
[switch on]
Darioosh!
[suspense music]
[PC starting]
It's a virus! Is it your first time?
No, but...
- I thought it was something supernatural.
- Do me a favour though
Never attach your work
flash drive to my laptop, please.
-It could ruin our life!
-Sure.
I saw Farhad the other
day. He wanted to see me.
Are you going to see him?
Shouldn't I go?
There's no point in seeing him.
Why?
He just works up your brain!
I would even delete
his number if I were you.
Why don't you go to bed?
Go get some sleep! The kid
wakes you up early enough as it is!
All right.
I'll fix this.
Goodnight!
[thud]
[thud]
[paper rustling]
Stop this endless process of studying.
I've been waiting a long time for you.
Don't you want to go to
a more reasonable place?
No, I just need to ask you a few questions.
And here I thought you've
accepted my invitation.
Can you tell me what's
your problem with Darioosh?
Our relationship has
always been problematic.
Are you sure it's nothing new?
We sometimes update our problems.
What do you mean?
We recently had some
conflict of interests at work.
And unfortunately going on
like this won't benefit any of us.
Not least Darioosh!
Is that why you wanted to see me?
Look...
I'd like you to get him out of my way.
You've always wanted
to watch him fall flat.
Be a tad professional!
I'm offering you a deal!
Over what?
-Darioosh?
-Your future!
What do you think of me?
You used to be a university
top student in your major.
What happened to all your dreams?
Sitting at home and writing for different
magazines and journals has fossilised you.
Look!
I can help you realise your dreams!
How about the Women
Section's Deputy at the Ministry?
Obviously you deserve it too.
But you too can help me get what I deserve.
Yes?
There's nothing to it really.
All you need to do is
convince Darioosh to resign
from his position a bit earlier than
he's planned to leave the organisation.
That easy!
Neither Darioosh is planning
to leave the organisation,
nor I have any dreams
that could be realised by you!
Soheil used to say a lot of such stuff
too before leaving the organisation.
-Did Soheil leave willingly?
-Didn't you know that?
It just got interesting!
What is this friend of
yours, Yassaman, good for?
-How long has it been?
-Several months!
Since Dr Alimohammadi's assassination.
What has Dr Alimohammadi's
assassination got to do with Soheil?
Darioosh doesn't talk to
you that often, does he?
-He tells whatever I need to know.
-Really?
Has he told you anything about
his relation with Alimohammadi?
No.
How about Dr Shahriari?
Huh?
Shahriari was ambushed and killed last night
in a highway with his wife next to him.
Has he told you that?
Or maybe it wasn't
something you needed to know.
But I recommend you to do a little
googling and read the last resolutions.
You'll find some
interesting stuff in there.
[suspense music]
Now that you don't seem to know
anything about current affairs...
Aside from Darioosh, five other people
were supposed to go to Hannover too.
All five of them are now in
Hannover. Did you know that?
You did not.
[crinkling]
Excuse me, may I use your
computer for a few minutes?
Thanks.
[typing]
Dr Shahriari's Assassination.
Attempted assassination of 2
Physics university professors.
[typing]
Unknown fate of Dr Shahriari.
The assassination of two physics
professors at Shahid Beheshti University.
How Dr Shahriari was assassinated.
Details on the assassination of
nuclear scientist Majid Shahriari.
Two men passed us fast on
a motorcycle. [Woman's voice]
They stuck something to the car in front of
us and I don't remember what happened next.
[motorbike engine]
[tense cinematic music]
[engine stops]
[chaotic uproar of voices]
[tense cinematic music]
[explosion sound, glass shattering]
[shrieking noise]
Dr Saghian has not
coordinated this with us.
All right. That's him. Dr Saghian?
-Mr Saghian?
-Hi.
What are you doing here?
It's fine. She can come in.
- I need to talk to you for a few seconds.
- All right. I'll be right behind you.
-Hello, doctor!
-Hi.
It's important.
Why did you come here?
I'm so busy now. Call me
late at night and we will talk.
Why didn't you send Darioosh to Hannover?
-Is that why you're here?
-Yes.
I told you to be patient. We need to
negotiate with them and see what we can do.
Are you negotiating for the 5 men
who are already in Hannover too?
Darioosh knows the answer
to these questions too.
If he hasn't told you, you
probably don't need to know.
I just want to know if this is
related to my marriage with Darioosh.
-What's that?
-The last resolution.
[paper rustling]
I want to know if Darioosh has worked
in one of the projects mentioned here.
Give me your phone.
Some issues are classified documents.
Your position will change if you
know about them. Do you get that?
Yes, but it doesn't matter at
all. I want to know everything.
You're not supposed to know everything.
I'm going to tell you
all that I can tell you.
But you should not ask
more questions afterwards.
Darioosh has been part of an important
project mentioned in the resolution.
It's only natural to stop
you from traveling abroad.
Dr Alimohammadi was on the same project?
Yes.
Please don't tell me Dr
Shahriari was part of it too.
I was too.
Like many others.
Nuclear science is like the forbidden city.
If you're a useful person and
set foot in one such project...
You won't be likeable for many
countries and organisations anymore.
Those who work in this
system know that very well.
All right, I've got a meeting now.
[camera shutter clicking]
Can I ask you a few questions,
doctor? Doctor? Doctor?
[camera shutter clicking]
[tense cinematic music]
[clanking sound]
-It's so difficult!
-Yeah. This one is rotten too.
-They're all rotten.
-Do you want me to wash one for you?
-Where is your lemon juice, Shohreh?
-It's here.
[clanking sound]
This will make a delicious
sauce. Do you all like lemon juice?
I don't care. Add whatever you like.
[clanking sound]
-The plate is here.
-Thanks.
[clanking sound]
-Wow! What a nice smell! Let me take that.
-No, thanks.
Yassi?
Hum?
What's wrong with her?
I don't know.
They assassinated two
university lecturers... [TV noises]
On their way to work with
their families next to them.
Well done to you and Darioosh!
All households are like
this. You know what I mean?
- See how he theorises his own laziness?
- Wow! Darioosh-made kebab!
Shohreh, will you bring the rice?
You haven't grilled the tomatoes enough.
[clanking sound]
Thank you. [Clanking sound]
-Well, whose turn...
-My turn.
-Miss Yasmin.
-Why?
-Thank you.
-Because of her child.
Do not worry about Sohail
working. He has already been fired.
Easy for him to do all the housework.
Not dismissal...
First, I was not fired, and
then I am not jobless either.
Shahreh, dear.
Here you go dear.
Dad, should I turn this on?
Armita and I will blow
the candles together.
3... 2... 1!
[cheering and clapping hands]
-Happy birthday!
-Happy birthday!
- I wish you a long healthy life!
- Here's my gift for you, dad.
Wow! Look at this!
Look what she's made for her daddy!
That's mummy! And this one is you, dad!
Why do I look like a
Samovar? Am I made of metal?
-That's because you're so strong!
-Oh! And what are these?
A tree, the sun, a bird and that's a cloud.
That's the cloud. Then where is my Armita?
I'm right here, dad!
Are you really? I thought you
were there. [Gentle smooch]
Now, should we eat the
cake or open the gifts first?
-Gifts!
-Fine. Whose gift?
-Mummy Shohreh!
-Mummy Shohreh!
All right, let's open mummy's gift!
[paper rustling]
We'll open your gift too.
But first, whose gift is it?
-I'm sure it's just a pair of socks!
-No, I think it's a watch.
-Socks! Let's make a bet!
-It's a watch!
I promise it's a watch! [Clanking sound]
- Why don't you open our gift first?
- We'll see it's a watch when we open it!
Shohreh?
How are you? [Clanking sound]
-Take this for the cake.
-Is something the matter?
No, it's nothing. I'll be right with you.
Go.
Wow! Congratulations!
Congratulations! [Clapping hands]
You guys have such a good taste.
Stop it man, will you?
[laughing]
Shohreh? Honey?
-Yes?
-Can you join us for a second?
Congratulations!
-I have a confession to make tonight.
-Go ahead!
I have never been a
good friend all these years.
I know.
Shohreh and I have been
married 8-9 years now.
-8-9 years already?
-Yeah.
Every single year of it, my lovely
wife has thrown a birthday party for me.
With a special gift every year.
And yet every single year, I've
forgotten about her birthday.
-But this is not an original watch.
-It is.
It's not. She's a master at
buying fake goods. Is this original?
It is, Soheil! Congratulations!
And my wife can easily tell the
difference between original and fake.
It's so beautiful, Shohreh.
Congratulations!
Since tonight is my birthday, I want to say
some prayers and you'll say Amen to them.
You're going to make us
sad again? Fine, go ahead!
I hope until we get old, forever...
Shohreh will remember my birthday.
I hope till the end of time...
Just like this, this very moment...
You'll be loved by her
or love her just this much.
-Say it already.
-Stop it, guys!
Say it already! I tell her 1000
times everyday that I love her.
She doesn't want me
to say it in front of others!
Hats off to you!
-Shall we eat the cake now?
-Yes, let's do that!
[clanking sound]
You've taken my heart
away. [Persian song playing]
O, my merciless lover. [Muffled voice]
[Persian song playing]
[muffled voice]
Wow!
[Persian song playing]
You got so tired tonight.
I wasn't tired.
I was humiliated.
When I'm the only stranger
in a Four-man crowd.
When there is something that
everyone knows about, except me.
At least it means that my
husband doesn't trust me.
[tapping]
Can you say what I've kept from you?
Was Soheil fired from work?
He asked me to tell you that way.
Why would someone want
others to think he was fired?
I don't know.
What does it matter?
What was the 3-man show you guys
just performed if it doesn't matter?
[tapping]
Soheil and Yassaman's
life is not our business.
Darioosh, I know everything about your job.
I know how sensitive your
job and our situation is.
Then please stop humiliating
yourself in front of me.
You don't know anything. [Sharp thud]
You don't need to know anything either.
I'll tell you whatever you need to know.
[clanking sound]
And I'm worried much more
than you about our life. Over!
[door closing]
[suspense music]
How about Soheil? Is he
happy with his new situation?
Of course he is!
Didn't you watch Shahriari's
wife's interview the other day?
It's so sad. I wouldn't wish it on anyone!
Why would he stay
there? It was too stressful.
And we have our baby because of
the compensation package he got..
And made IVF a viable option for us.
It's either a girl or a boy.
For 10 years I've only attended baby
showers. It's my turn to throw one one.
I want to do the best I can for my baby.
[kids chattering]
Yassi!
-I need something from you.
-What is it? Do you need money?
Not really.
Can you ask Soheil to offer
Darioosh a job at his company?
-Has he resigned?
-He's going to.
Why doesn't he ask Soheil
himself? They're friends.
You know how important
self-esteem is for Darioosh?
He'll be under too much
pressure leaving the organisation.
I can only imagine how hard
it'll be for him to ask for favours.
- Doesn't my husband have any self-esteem?
- I don't mean that.
As a board member it's only natural
for him to offer someone a job.
I thought you might be able to ask him.
Sure, I will tell him.
Soheil would love that.
[street noises]
[movie noises]
-Can I open my eyes, dad?
-Not yet.
Now you can look, sweetie.
That's my girl!
Will you please change seats with mum?
No, I like my seat!
No, you'll have a better view there.
-Damn!
-Come on, sweetie!
There you go, sweetheart.
Sit here, honey.
[rustling]
[movie noises]
What is this?
It's a gift.
What's the occasion?
It doesn't need an occasion.
Thank you!
-This is empty, Darioosh!
-I know.
I had ordered the ring, but the
store has been late on delivering it.
Accept my apology. They'll
send it as soon as it's ready.
I don't want a ring. Just don't lie to me.
Yes, ma'am.
I'm sorry.
And don't you even again raise your
voice on me! It makes me really upset.
- I did not raise my voice.
- Yeah. But I just felt like telling you that.
Fine. I won't say a word.
And put this apology box in
my bag. I don't want to lose it.
So from now on, you'll tell
me everything I need to know.
Alright?
The most important one is that they're
not that stupid to want to assassinate me.
Shahriari and Alimohammadi were
prominent figures in the organisation.
-I'm nothing like them.
-Stop it.
You should resign.
What? Why are you looking at me like that?
[sudden thud]
Up until a while ago, no one dared
mentioning those lads' names in front of you.
It was just after the
election and I was angry.
It doesn't mean I want to quit.
But I'm not saying anything unreasonable.
You've done this job so far.
You can take a new job now.
Don't you know me?
Am I that kind of person?
I've invested my youth in this job.
Should I now just find another job?
I did not suggest you should
open a grocery shop or anything.
You can work in a relevant company.
It'll be less stressful and more
comfortable. Don't you think?
I don't know. I'm sure you
have friends in such companies.
Like the one Soheil is working for.
He's your friend and we've
known them for a long time.
It won't feel like an
unknown territory for you.
-Fine.
-Promise that. I'm counting on your word.
Yeah. I promise.
[roaring of thunder]
[faded man singing]
Assassination of Muslim Scientists
[typing]
[phone vibrating]
[phone vibrating]
Yes?
Ms Pirani. The silence tells me
everyone is asleep in your home now.
-Who is this?
-Think of me as a simple operator.
I'd take what I'm about
to tell you seriously.
I'll cut to the chase.
What I want from you is simple.
But it will benefit you far
more than you could imagine.
What?
Turn on your husband's laptop
and connect it to the internet.
You'll then wait for 3 minutes.
You can then turn it off
and put it back in its place.
Why should I do that?
Because I'm the one dealing
with Darioosh's case now.
And I can't promise you that if
this doesn't resolve peacefully.
And the case is transferred
to someone else...
What might happen in the next phase.
I want you to look at the next
72 hours as an opportunity.
If Darioosh learns about our conversation,
that will be the end of this window.
And I won't be able to help you anymore.
I can tell you'll need more
time to make up your mind.
I can understand that. But I
will close this case in 72 hours.
I hope you will have taken
the right decision by then.
Please consider the next
72 hours as an opportunity.
[hang up beep]
[window closing]
[curtains drawn shut]
[door closing]
Darioosh?
[tense cinematic music]
[tense cinematic music]
[car door unlocking]
[tense cinematic music]
[car door closing]
[car engine starting]
-We couldn't trace the call.
-Is it serious?
Blackmail and threat
happens very often in this job.
But I don't remember a case
where they called the target's family.
- What do you think I should do?
- Push him to get out of that organisation.
Everyday counts.
Look! I don't think you should
tell anyone about this for now.
You know what I mean?
Will they leave us alone
if he leaves his job?
He'll have to turn in all
the information he's got.
And when he stops working there, he won't
be considered a target for them anymore.
Why don't you help him?
Invite him to come and work with you.
I swear to god, Shohreh, I'd love that.
We were even discussing
it with Yassi last night.
Don't say this to Darioosh.
But he's a legend in our
work. You see what I mean?
[paper rustling]
Excuse me. Drink your tea
and I'll be right back with you.
[paper rustling]
-What happened?
-I don't know. He just got mad!
Go away, you good-for-nothing! Go!
[office noises]
-Excuse me.
-What is Farhad doing here?
He's the board's chief.
-Is he your boss?
-He just acts like a boss.
We do all the work
and he just... God forbid!
So you are aware of the
reason why Darioosh and...
Farhad have their
differences in the organisation?
Our company is focused on one
of the organisation's big projects.
It is vital for Farhad to get this project.
Dr Saghian has given Darioosh
authority over ratifying
the proposal and its executive
standards. He doesn't approve it.
Then there must be something wrong with it.
My sister...
Hundreds of projects are approved with
no supervision in this country every day.
Yes, that's because only this
one has been given to Darioosh.
You two are just like one another!
The rules you have made for yourselves
doesn't conform with outside reality.
I'd never set foot in here if you had
told me Farhad was your boss here.
There are plenty of fish in the
sea. Darioosh will find another job.
Only there aren't.
It's not like we produce pots or kettles.
There are only 2-3 companies
dealing with such projects.
Which one would be stupid
enough to hire someone
who has worked in the most
confidential projects in the country?
You can't blame them for not
wanting to lose their business.
As soon as Darioosh
sets his foot in a company...
Its risks of getting sanctioned
goes up to 70 per cent.
I'm nothing compared to Darioosh. And
even I am working here under an alias.
Are you thinking about going to Farhad now?
Just try to convince Darioosh instead.
Convincing Darioosh is
much harder than Farhad.
Don't you know Darioosh?
Fine. But wait for me to talk to him first.
[sizzling sound]
Hi. Did you talk to Farhad?
Ouch! [Thud]
[thud]
[clanking sound]
Are you going out again
tonight? [Water splashing]
Yes. Mr Saghian
called. He said it's urgent.
It's all right to perform ablution with
this much ink stain on my hand, right?
What happened to your hand?
I got distracted and
stuck my hand to the pan.
Why didn't you put
something on it? It's too red.
We had this lotion in the fridge.
Come here for a second, Shohreh.
[rustling]
-I need to tell you something, Darioosh.
-Sure.
[roaring of thunder]
I was working on the computer yesterday...
Right.
Then an unknown number called me.
And?
[roaring of thunder]
Will you come play with me, daddy?
Yes, sweetie. I'm coming.
Hold your hand straight.
Who called you?
-What?
-Who called you?
Nothing. It was nothing.
It was about a few research proposals.
It requires a lot of heavy work.
I need to borrow your laptop.
Since when people get a birthday gift back?
Just for a short while!
When will you clean the data in it?
-My Henas!
-Yes?
We're talking about everything that I have
worked for in my life. Give me some time.
We have already made
our decision, Darioosh.
You promised to resign.
Don't go back on your word!
-Fine.
-You promised!
Sure. I'll talk to Saghian tonight.
Get it over with, Darioosh!
[raining sound]
[dramatic music]
Letter of Resignation
Mommy give me the keys... give me the keys
[suspense music]
Hello Ma'm -Hello
This cat had gone under
your car. I had to save him.
[cat is purring]
-Would you like to hold him?
-Yes.
No, sir. Thank you. You may leave now.
I wanted to caress the cat, mum!
[car door closing]
Can I go through dad's pockets, mum?
No, you shouldn't do that, honey.
But daddy allows me to do
that. Daddy allows me to do that.
Where did you get this, Armita?
It was in daddy's pocket.
Letter of Resignation
You know... when I get too
busy at the organisation...
I send Darioosh to teach on
my behalf at the university.
And every single time
when I go back, I find out...
That he knows much
more that I thought he did.
He hadn't told me this either.
Letter of Resignation
I wish he only taught at university.
Has Darioosh written this?
I think he's too shy to
bring it to you himself.
There's nothing to be shy about.
I just wanted to get your consult.
I wish you had waited for
him to bring it to you himself.
[thud]
Do you really think that
your husband is irreplaceable?
I hope you'll fine someone to replace him.
That way my conscience
would be in less pain.
I'd rather hear you ask me then
why I have held onto him for 15 years.
Why have you held onto him for
15 years and won't let go of him?
[door closing]
Hello, doctor.
I'm done.
Your prediction was right.
They have worked very
meticulously on all the engines.
They know what they're doing.
Thank god we managed to
identify them. [Click of the lighter]
I'll send you the report tomorrow.
If it wasn't for Darioosh, god knows what
disaster was going to happen at the site.
I didn't know that either.
Then you probably don't know
this either. In our line of job...
When two people are assassinated
in the space of a few months...
It means the world when we manage to
destroy a very critical espionage system.
I'm sure I'm worrying you even more.
If it's leaked how we have
stopped their destruction machine.
We'll move a few steps
higher on their black list.
Why are you telling me this stuff now?
There were other people
who could do his job.
But they opted for other ways.
Darioosh could've done that too.
Darioosh's work commitment
shouldn't allow you to exploit him.
You haven't known him yet
after 10 years of marriage?
No one can blackmail Darioosh!
Not even I could do that!
When he believes something is right,
he doesn't consider the cons and pros.
Or else he'd have obtained
several PhDs by now.
That's a very good reason for you
to consider his resignation seriously.
What matters is the future of the
country Armita is going to grow up in.
Darioosh knows that
better than everyone else.
All these years... even
now that we are talking here.
He has never felt any doubt
about continuing this path.
Not even after the election which
had left a bitter taste in his mouth.
Speak frankly please.
The paper in your hand.
Is your own resignation, not his.
[door opening]
Don't eat cream. It'll give you heartburn.
Fine. This is my last bite.
[clanking sound]
The frog needs a bite!
The frog needs a bite!
Here, sweetie.
I want to take her to the
ophthalmologist for her eyes.
That's great.
What's that? Aren't you going with us?
No, I'll be working late today.
Why don't you skip work today?
I can't. I'll be working late today.
It's out of my hands.
Everyone in that organisation controls
their own fate. Everyone but you!
So you prioritise your
work over your child.
[clanking sound]
What are you talking about?
It's not about my fate.
I have committed to something
and have to respect that.
That's right.
Another bite, daddy!
One with butter!
[kid laughing]
[clanking sound]
I can take a day off tomorrow
so we can take her together.
I'll take her today.
What difference does it make?
We can take her tomorrow.
It makes a difference to me.
[swishing]
This colour looks really good on you!
My Henas.
I know you've got really tired.
You're under a lot of stress and pressure.
But give me a few days.
I promise we will go
on a nice trip afterwards.
We'll go to Abdanan, just like old times.
It'll make you feel better.
Why do you speak of something
that's impossible for you.
Just a few weeks ago we were
fully prepared to move to Germany.
And then a sudden phone call or
whatever our life turned upside down.
I just want to know where
I'm standing in your life.
You're not my old times' Darioosh anymore.
The Darioosh that would
stand up to the world for me.
The Darioosh who wouldn't
do anything without my consent.
-I still believe in that.
-Don't! I don't want you to say it!
Because I don't believe you anymore.
We'd better not talk now
while you're so angry.
Didn't you just say my
consent still matters to you?
Why don't you talk to Saghian then?
Why don't you hand in your resignation?
I can do it for you if you can't!
[clanking sound]
-Are you threatening me now?
-Yes, I am.
I'd do anything for me, my life, for
the calm of my child and my husband.
-Even if I have to do it on my own!
-On your own?
Yes!
I'm the one who's been carrying
this stress on his own for 10 years!
I'm the lonely one, not you!
You mean I haven't been by
your side throughout these years?
Thank you for clarifying that!
I want to be there for you from now on.
-I want to lessen your stress.
-Shohreh!
Your comfort has been my
priority all these years! Get that!
I get that! But you took it
all away from me at once!
I expected much more from you.
I expected a lot more too.
But you could not keep
your word like a man!
Like a man!
[dramatic music]
Bravo!
[crying]
[door opening]
[door shutting]
[crying]
[dialing]
[dialing]
[ongoing dramatic music]
[dialing]
I'm sorry, Darioosh.
[phone vibrating]
[phone vibrating]
Yes?
If I can guess right, your
husband is not with you right now.
It hasn't been 72 hours yet, sir!
There's not much of it left either.
So I thought I might show
you something as well.
What?
Sit at your computer desk.
Why should I do that?
No questions!
Do as I say!
[suspense music]
[switch on]
[PC starting]
[rapid breathing]
There is a folder named
Armita on the desktop.
Look at the photos one by one.
Who's taken these photos?
The same person who's
put them in your computer!
Is this a threat?
Or maybe I just want what's best for you.
Protecting Armita in a safe
country with a safe income.
It's your choice now.
Apparently Mr Darioosh
has made up his mind.
[hang up beep]
[suspense music]
[tense cinematic music]
[door opening]
[dramatic music]
[crying]
[laptop starting]
[dramatic music]
Can you give me Farhad's number, Soheil?
I can't wait any longer.
So?
Stop walking so fast, Armita!
Take my words seriously!
Alright?
I'll wait for your call then. Bye.
-How much do I owe you, sir?
-Let me see...
Thanks.
[nylon rustling]
[suspense music]
-Do you like this?
-Sir!
What was he saying?
[door opening]
Let's go!
[nylon rustling]
-Thank you. Let's go.
-Have a good day.
Hurry up!
[tense cinematic music]
[office noises]
[knocking]
Hi. Where are you going?
I'm going to talk to him.
He's in a meeting now.
I don't have any more time, Soheil!
-Don't make him stubborn?
-What are you talking about?
Why don't you understand my situation?
Darioosh is taking pills all the time.
Every time he wants to use his car.
He first checks his remote keys
to make sure the car won't blow up!
He's even... [knocking]
-Shohreh?
-Yes?
-He's not a balanced man.
-I know.
You used to speak more
confidently at university.
Something is off about you.
I want you to ask
Darioosh to come here for...
No, no, no, no.
That's not the way to ask me.
Be confident.
Are you afraid of something?
Be the Shohreh Pirani you've always been.
[clanking sound]
-Sit down.
-What's the matter with you?
You were saying?
I'm asking you to bring
Darioosh to your company.
Your voice is shaking, right?
Yes, it is.
It's a bad feeling when your
voice shakes when you talk, isn't it?
I wanted to see you stronger than this.
You know, Ms Pirani.
Unlike Darioosh, I don't
feel like these businesses.
What's the end of it? A
medical scanning device.
Or some research catalyst.
Something that I don't
even know what good will do.
This stuff doesn't excite me, Ms Pirani.
You want to know what excites me?
This company.
The employees who get nervous
when they see me in the morning.
[clanking sound]
I tried to offer you a
more respectful deal.
But I admit that I like this one better.
I love this silence.
We have now taken the first step together
You have realised when to talk.
And when to remain silent.
Hush.
You picked a bad day
for coming here, Ms Pirani.
Today at 4 p.m., the final meeting
will be held to review our proposal.
It will possibly be rejected again.
See?
They're way out of line.
If you manage to get his signature
on my proposal before that meeting...
We'll be more than happy to have you here.
But if that doesn't happen.
You'll have to go back to your home town.
You can buy a couple of sheep.
And you'll be able to enjoy fresh
country air for the rest of your lives.
Did you say something?
[paper rustling, clanking sound]
[street noises]
[engine stops]
[car alarm goes off]
What would you do in my place?
I was exactly in your situation, Shohreh.
But I made up my mind.
Remember the day we were
sitting on the grass at university?
We were counting an
ideal husband's features.
[soft chuckle]
Yeah.
Remember none of our
ideal features were similar?
Yeah.
Except for one feature.
We both wanted our husbands to be crazy.
And the only ideal feature our
husbands turned out to have was 'crazy'.
Yeah.
If I go back in time 100 times, I'd still
support Soheil's decision every single time.
I wanted a calm life.
A better financial situation.
For that I paid a huge price too though.
What was that?
That Soheil lost his most
important feature in the process.
-Thank you, professor.
-Bye.
[tapping]
Are you happy?
I've got no personal problem with
you. Why would I be happy about this?
But you knew how important it was for
me and my company to get this project.
People exploit every
option they have in a fight.
This fight only exists in
your mind. It's not real.
Yeah.
I just lost a several million dollar
deal in my mind! It was not real!
Is money your problem now?
[sarcastic chuckle]
Why do you think Saghian has
given the decisive power over such..
A huge project to an ordinary
employee of the organisation?
Huh?
Do you know why you
were placed in the middle of...
Saghian, Alimohammadi
and Shahriari's projects?
What's your role in this, Darioosh?
Just look at yourself!
You are a distract or.
They're using you as their front.
You are a shield on the black list of
sanctions so that they can stay clear.
I feel for you, but you don't get it.
You're naive.
You're from out of town.
You had never lived in a
complex environment before.
Are you trying to change my mind here?
Then let me level with you.
I've closed your file a long time ago.
Really? Then let me close
your file too once and for all.
You'll need me much sooner
than you could imagine.
You'll be begging me in no time.
You'll struggle and you'll beg for my help.
I don't know which scenario
would be more interesting to me.
Whether you become my employee
right now and wait for me to sign...
Your check at the end of every
month for the rest of your life.
Or maybe a tad later, you
come and beg me to hire you...
And I ask security to kick
you out of the premises.
Then even if your wife begs
me, I won't be able to help you.
[tense cinematic music]
I don't what has your father fed you guys that
has turned you this way. It's your business.
But do whatever shit you
want in your own world.
I am from Abdanan. Do
you know where that is?
At the end of Ilam. On
the edge of the border.
People from around the border has a habit.
We break the legs of anyone
who tries to cross the border.
Don't you dare crossing the
border of my personal life!
And you'll get those dreams to the grave!
Rest assured!
[door closing]
There is only four of them.
Nothing is visible in this sky.
[fire crackling]
Don't you miss the Abdanan sky?
Of course I do.
I just don't mention it cause I'm afraid
you might suggest for us to move back there.
[soft chuckle]
I really wanted Armita to grow up there.
I know.
Hope she doesn't catch a cold.
Remember the war era tents in Abdanan?
Not so much.
But I heard about them from my dad.
[fire crackling]
I remember.
We used to live for a long time in one
of those tents during the bombardments.
Once, when I was in middle school.
I sulked with my dad over
his decision to go to the front
We had a very hard time.
And since I was the older
kid, I had to do everything.
Once as he was getting ready to leave.
I started pouting.
I did not go to say goodbye.
He suddenly came back inside.
He.
Held my wrist very tightly.
He dragged me outside into the town.
I couldn't believe my eyes, Shohreh.
In a matter of months, all my
childhood memories had turned to ruins.
The street we used to play football in.
My school.
The local mosque.
I still the smell of
blood from all over town.
I saw so many people whose eyes were
wide open but had stopped breathing.
Every part of that town was a
pretext for our play and daydreaming.
But now it had become the
world's most unsafe place.
I felt as if someone whom I did not know
had stamped on all my childhood and left.
[faded sound of RPG]
When my dad showed me everywhere.
He let go of my hand.
He did not say another word and left.
I can still feel his grip around my wrist.
Shohreh!
I have studied all my life.
But they are now bullying us.
They want to take everything from me.
It's not just about my job.
I'm from this land.
I haven't been raised to say yes to
anyone who just raises his voice on me.
I don't know if I leave
this responsibility...
Will I ever again be able to
look myself in the eyes in a mirror?
[dramatic music]
Can you imagine that Darioosh, Shohreh?
There are always others to replace me.
But I want Armita to be proud
of me when she grows up.
I want her to remember me as someone
who stood his ground no matter what.
I don't allow myself to take
that decision on my own.
I need your help to be
able to make this decision.
I love this Darioosh so much.
[fire crackling]
Which Shohreh do you love?
You already know the answer.
Then there's nothing to be decided.
Shohreh.
Do you know the price of this decision?
[ongoing dramatic music]
I really don't know what might
happen. [Voice over narration]
I don't know how much
of these threats are real.
Or how much of them are
just a plot to scare me away.
But of one thing I am assured.
I want Armita to be able
to have a normal childhood.
-Let's go!
-Hold on! Hold on! Now!
-Now let's race to the car!
-Let's go fast!
Now! [Screaming]
[car doors opening]
Help! Help! Help!
[screaming]
What is it? [Laughing]
Why are you shouting?
Sorry, Darioosh!
You wanted us to practice this, right?
I want you to be the same energetic Shohreh
I've been in love with for the past 10 years.
I am sure I have a lot of plans
for my future. [Master's thesis]
I don't want to give up on any of
my dreams. [Voice over narration]
Let's drink a cup of tea.
Hold the screw on the bottom. Come on.
We're supposed to
live our life like before.
Just as normal.
Just as peaceful.
But what's going to happen eventually?
[dramatic music]
I'd rather not think about it.
Look, Auntie! Look how
she eats! [Baby moaning]
-Wow!
-Here it comes!
-Can we eat some of that too?
-Sure.
[ongoing dramatic music]
-Mummy?
-Yes, sweetie?
Is it daddy's birthday today?
No, sweetheart. It's
daddy's graduation party.
-What does 'graduation' mean?
-Try to explain that to her!
It means your dad's studies has ended.
Then why do you want to throw
me a party when I start school?
Some people celebrate both the
beginning and the end of their school
-So daddy went to school too?
-No.
Then why are you celebrating this?
We just want to celebrate
for no reason. Is it bad?
-Hurray!
-Your glasses are so dirty. Hurray!
-It's so great!
-Yes!
Will you buy gifts too?
-Yes.
-No!
-No?
-I just bought toys for her recently.
-But daddy said so!
-No!
-No. Daddy didn't know.
-Armita! Armita! Here!
O, beautiful star! [Persian song playing]
Sequin of the torn cloud!
Whether Off or glowing?
[Persian song playing]
Whether awake or asleep.
Tell me when you were
awake, didn't you see my daddy?
I saw him pass by here...
He went up there in the sky!
Bravo, daddy! You sang it perfectly!
Yes, I've been singing since my childhood.
Or maybe you only sing my songs so well.
-Yes!
-Are you taunting me now, sweetheart?
-Daddy?
-Yes?
What does 'taunting' mean?
It's when you talk indirectly
about something that has upset you.
Did I taunt mummy now?
Yes, you did a little bit.
-Armita!
-Yes?
-You should never make mummy upset.
-Fine.
Now go kiss mummy and make it up to her.
I love you so much.
[gentle smooch]
Sit down. Don't eat any more
cheese puffs. [Door opening]
It's about lunch time.
Don't you want to go inside?
Dear.
[door opening]
[light clicking]
[engine sound]
[zipper opening]
[gun sound]
Close your eyes, sweetheart.
[gun shot]
[gun shot]
[gun shot]
[gun shot]
[gun shot]
[screaming]
[car door opening, crying]
Get him!
Help!
Get him!
Help! [Motorbike engine, gun shots]
[motorbike fading]
[dramatic music]
[ongoing dramatic music]
Master's Thesis.
[light switch]
[phone ringing]
[thuds]
[phone ringing]
[phone ringing]
You and your gifts!
[teary sniffles]
[door opening]
Look what they just got me!
I got something too
-Is it nice?
-It is.
[clanking sound]
Thank you so much, ma'am.
He has lots of information in his computer. I'm
sure he wouldn't want them to remain unused.
It's just that... What's the password?
If you kindly give it to us, we won't
need the help of our cyber team.
He never gave me the password.
What was the password
of your home computer?
Try Armita.
[error sound]
Abdanan!
[error sound]
Try Abdanan plus his birth year.
[error sound]
Now do the same with Armita.
[error sound]
Henas!
-Is it Kurdish?
-Yes.
It means 'breath'.
[error sound]
Will you give me a second?
My Henas.
[laptop starting]
It's unlocked.
[cinematic music]
Shohreh!
My Henas!
Yes?
Do you know what this decision means?
I'll be with you till the very end.
[cinematic music]
[ongoing cinematic music]
Henas.
A free interpretation of
the life of Shohreh Pirani,
wife of the great martyr,
Darioosh Rezaeinejad.
Director: Hossein Darabi.
Producer: Mohammadreza Shafah.
Executive Producer: Kamran Hejazi.
Writers: Ehsan Saghafi, Mahdieh Einollahi.
Merila Zare'i.
Behrooz Shoeibi.
Vahid Rahbani.
Solmaz Ghani.
Amin Miri.
Alireza Naeini.
Child Actress: Kossar Heidari.
With: Siavash Tahmoores.
Production Manager: Peiman Hejazi.
Director of Photography: Majid Gorjian.
Editor: Siavash Kordjan.
Sound Editing and Mixing: Arash Ghassemi.
Set Design: Behzad Jafari Tadi.
Sound Recordist: Mohammad Shahverdi.
Make-up Design: Siamak Ahmadi.
Costume Design: Soossan Noroozi.
Casting: Kioomars Moradi.
Programmer: Mohammadreza Keshmiri.
First Assistant Director:
Saleh Gharbi Javan.
Visual Effects: Mohammad Lotfali.
Special Effects: Arash Aghabeik.
Purchasing Manager: Mohsen Maghareh Abed.
Scene Secretary: Ghazal Rashidi.
Photographer: Hamid Zarrabi.